The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, has slammed the Allan Labor Government for failing to invest in a public secondary school for Kilmore, despite the town being one of Victoria’s fastest-growing corridors.
A petition calling for a local high school attracted thousands of signatures from families, students, and community members.
A suitable site has already been identified, yet in response the Minister for Education has confirmed there are “currently no plans to open” a school.
“This Government has deliberately planned for massive growth in Kilmore, while refusing to provide even the most basic public education infrastructure,” Ms Cleeland said.
“The need is obvious, the population is booming, and the community is united – the only thing missing is Labor’s political will. Families are being let down, and our children are paying the price.”
With no local high school, Kilmore families are forced to send their children to Broadford, Wallan, or beyond, with some students facing commutes of up to two hours each day. Meanwhile, surrounding schools are already stretched beyond capacity.
“This is not sustainable, and it is not fair,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Children in Kilmore deserve the same access to affordable, local public education as children in Melbourne. Instead, Labor’s neglect is forcing them into overcrowded classrooms and exhausting daily travel.”
The campaign for a Kilmore secondary school has been driven by dedicated local advocates and backed in Parliament by Ms Cleeland and Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria, Gaelle Broad.
“Our community has spoken loud and clear through this petition,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Kilmore families are demanding what every parent wants – the chance for their children to learn close to home.
“The Allan Labor Government cannot keep ignoring the growth corridor of this state. Our kids deserve a high school in their own town, and I will keep fighting until they get one.”